For the first time in its 35-year-old history, the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), a US-based global organization of image management experts has elected an Asian president.
Olen Juarez-Lim, founder and president of the OJL Consulting Group and a recognized image management professional and industry icon in the Philippines has been elected the 22nd president of the prestigious group, the first Filipina to ever be elected to the position.
She will head the four-day global conference at the Makati Shangri La Manila Hotel from April 24 to 27. Themed “Weaving the Future: Global Collaborations for Breakthrough Innovations," it is the first time the organization is bringing its conference to Asia. Delegates from North America, South America, Europe, Australia and other parts of Asia will attend the conference.
Noted Go Negosyo mentor Paolo Tibig will talk about how to manage business as a keynote speaker. Online business authority from Australia, Amber Renae will discuss digital influence, while special guest speaker Kara Finney from Dexterity Canada will talk about relational skills in the workplace. Vogue Philippines editor in chief Bea Valdes will talk fashion to introduce the fashion show of Philippine weaves that iconic fashion designer Rajo Laurel will unveil at the event.
Forty-four different sessions on a wide variety of topics for creating and maintaining a positive, impactful and relatable image will provide the definitive guide to image consulting at the conference. Participants can gather all the necessary tools to learn about various aspects of image consulting – from visual communication to the psychology of shapes and colors to styling, marketing, business strategies, corporate image and branding.
Filipino hospitality and culture will be front and center at the conference. “The Philippines is renowned for its warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. By choosing Manila as the conference venue, AICI aims to offer an immersive experience that highlights Filipino hospitality, cuisine and the arts. This unique backdrop provides an excellent opportunity for attendees to experience the warmth and friendliness of the Filipino people, so the conference becomes not just educational but also culturally enriching,” said Olen Lim.
She added that hosting the conference in Manila will highlight the contributions of Filipino image consultants to the global industry. “The conference will be a platform for local talents to gain international recognition, promote their work and share their insights. The event will encourage global discourse on image consulting,” she said.
“Holding AICI’s 35th Anniversary Global Conference in Manila will let us celebrate the diverse and global nature of our organization and help us create an enriching experience that fosters professional growth, cultural exchange and industry innovation,” said Rosario Diz from Argentina, vice president of the global conference.
The last global conference was held at Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic in 2023.
Delegates to this conference -- described as an event of glitz, glamour and game-changing connections -- are slated to immerse themselves in local culture and sample well-known tourist destinations during their stay.
